Trainee Corner: Emma’s experience in family

I have reached the three-quarter point of my training contract and it’s been a steep learning curve, but incredibly rewarding!
My journey so far as a trainee solicitor has been a dynamic exploration of the legal landscape, particularly in personal services, beginning with six months in personal injury, followed by residential conveyancing. I am currently finding myself immersed in the care team within the family department, focusing on supporting individuals who are subjected to care proceedings issued by the local authority.
Day to day
In my five months within the care team, I have been guided by Andrew Wonnacott and Mark Mears, encountering a daily routine involving diverse responsibilities, ranging from court appearances to handling urgent applications and analysing evidence.
The nature of the work demands a level of preparedness to address critical issues at any given moment, even extending beyond set working hours. One element is offering both legal and moral support to the clients as their case progresses and navigating the involvement of social services in their lives.
However, what I find gratifying about this line of work is that each day and case presents a unique set of challenges and scenarios.
Why family?
It is a common assumption that family law isn’t for the fainthearted, as you will invariably work on sensitive cases. It requires not only legal knowledge but also compassion. Witnessing clients handle their toughest moments fuels me to find solutions and advocate for their well-being. This experience has fostered invaluable empathetic skills, reminding me of the human element of law.
What truly sets GA apart is our commitment to accessibility. As one of the few firms offering legal aid in Plymouth, they support individuals regardless of their financial circumstances.
Reflecting as a trainee solicitor
Throughout my training contract, regular feedback, mentorship, and a supportive supervisor have been hugely instrumental to my learning. However, building up a good rapport with your supervisor is vital during your training as ultimately, the more effort and hard work you put in, the greater the learning experience and the more rewarding your time in that seat will be.
In addition to formal training, I have actively engaged in marketing and networking opportunities. While it may seem overwhelming, this became a valuable tool for boosting my confidence. Furthermore, as one of four trainees, you’ll work alongside like-minded peers, sharing experiences and supporting each other’s growth.
The great thing about GA is that every member has a part to play, however, the reason that this firm has so many years of experience is that everyone is still passionate about their job. It’s an approachable firm where there is an answer to any question, creating a learning environment where no one feels lost.
What next?
Looking ahead, I’m eager to expand my expertise in family law and qualify as a solicitor this September!
As a multisector law firm with eight specialist departments, we offer trainee solicitors hands-on experience in a variety of contentious and non-contentious areas. Find out more by visiting our Trainee Solicitor Contracts page or viewing our FAQs.
All content on this website (inclusive of guides, blogs and imagery) is strictly copyrighted by Gill Akaster LLP, trading as GA Solicitors. It is not to be used by any third party without prior contact and permission. Any requests for content should be sent to katy.mckenna@GAsolicitors.com.